News

Pregnancy has its ups and downs, and they can make giving birth feel bittersweet in a way. Once your little one has arrived, you may end up missing some of the best parts of pregnancy, but chances are that you won’t regret being done with the worst parts. https://youtu.be/A2t0F2gWvhQ The Best Part Of Being Pregnant Extra Kindness and Care Every ordinarily grumpy folks can get a bit overprotective of the pregnant ladies in their lives, and strangers can get in on the act too. Special acts of kindness like people you’ve never met rushing to help you with heavy groceries or giving up their seats on a bus or family members giving you special treats and generally fussing over you in the best way possible, being pregnant really lets you see the best of the people around you. The Special Pregnancy Bonding Feel There’s nothing quite like that feeling of knowing that your child is growing inside you. Getting to actually meet your child is fantastic, but it makes sense that some moms miss the feeling of being pregnant thanks to this special just-the-two-of-us bond. Shopping for Adorable Baby Stuff Shopping is always fun, but it’s even more fun when you’re designing a whole new wardrobe and bedroom for a little person who hasn’t arrived in the world yet. For many parents, picking out different colors and cute prints is one of the most enjoyable parts of pregnancy (other than the sense of excitement and happiness, of course). The Worst Part Of Being Pregnant Physical Discomfort From morning sickness to weight gain and other issues, pregnancy isn’t necessarily a physically enjoyable experience. While not every pregnant woman experiences significant discomfort, most feel some sort of nausea, fatigue, pain or general weirdness at some point in the process. Pregnancy skin might look totally different from what you’re used to, and sleeping can also be more of a challenge. Nosy Nellies You know what they say about opinions—everyone has one, and they don’t know how to keep it to themselves when they see a pregnant woman. From pressuring you about breastfeeding to policing what you eat and how you exercise, unwanted advice is one of the least-enjoyable parts of pregnancy. Unfortunately, this is an almost entirely universal experience, and even some women who hated getting this kind of advice when they were pregnant will turn around and do it to others. Anticipation and Nervous Energy There is some excitement that’s naturally a part of most pregnancies, but many expectant parents also experience a good dose of anxiousness as well. Whether your concerns are financial, logistical or theoretical, this is also totally normal. Luckily, by the time you give birth you’ll already have moved past most of the things that tend to cause pregnant mamas some agita, including the actual delivery itself. From start to finish, pregnancy includes its blissful moments of enjoyment and its minor annoyances and major concerns. This balance is part of parenthood as well, so why not take the bad with the good and make the best of it? You Might Also Like: 5 Things I Wish I’d Known About Before My First Baby

Your very first prenatal visit can be a whirlwind experience. But, if you know what questions to ask first, it’ll be a lot easier. These five question suggestions can help guide you to a successful and well-informed relationship with your OBGYN. 1. Can I continue taking my current medications? If not, what alternatives are available? In most cases, you’ll likely be able to continue taking your current medications. However, there are some medications that can harm the fetus in utero. Be up front about everything you’re taking. This includes over the counter meds or supplements. Ask whether you can continue your current treatment regimen and find out what alternatives are available. If you are on medication for depression or anxiety, you’ll want to pay attention to the way the doctor responds to this question. Doctors who aren’t sympathetic to these valid mental health issues at the prenatal stage might not be proactive about postpartum depression either. If you already know you’re prone to this issue, that should be a red flag. Expectant mothers who need to stop taking medication for depression or anxiety should be referred to a therapist rather than simply left without any care at all during pregnancy. 2. Can you recommend any local prenatal classes? Find out from an expert rather than just going to Google. You can follow up on your doctor’s suggestions independently to see which one works best for you. 3. What emergency symptoms should I be aware of and when should I call you or seek emergency care? Your body is going to change a lot over the next several months. You’ll feel physical sensations you’ve probably never experience before. This can even be true if this isn’t your first pregnancy! That’s why it’s so important to know what’s a sign of something serious and what’s merely uncomfortable or weird. Fever, spotting and severe cramps can be warning signs. But don’t just ask about specific symptoms—let your doctor run down a list of what you need to be aware of. Follow that up by making sure you know exactly when the sensations you’re feeling are emergency level and when they’re not so serious that you can’t wait a few hours for an appointment. 4. How often do you recommend a Cesarean? Episiotomy? Labor induction? Find out where your OBGYN stands on issues such as episiotomy and other topics to get a sense for whether you’ll work well together. This question isn’t limited to the topics listed above. If there are any issues that are really important to you in childbirth, whether it’s going the natural route (or not), avoiding the use of forceps, using pain medication after delivery or delivering at home, you should ask about it and see whether the response you get is in line with your priorities. Remember, this is as much an interview as it is a doctor’s appointment. 5. Should I change my daily routine? Ask about specific cosmetic habits like painting your nails or getting spray tans. Include health-related routines like exercise and sex, diet, sleep and anything else that may need to change now that you’ve got a bun in the oven. If you do physical labor at work or anything else that might impact how your pregnancy progresses, be sure to ask about it.

There’s often a feeling that second-time parents are old pros at this whole baby thing, but that doesn’t tell the whole story. Sure, there are things you know now that you didn’t know then, and confidence is justified. But there are still many new things you will learn along the way as you gear up to welcome your second baby. Worries and Doubts Many parents find that the biggest change between their first and second pregnancies is the worry or doubt that can come with the unknown. Having already experienced parenthood firsthand, you’ll know how you respond to late-night feedings, diaper overflow emergencies, stuffy infant noses and breastfeeding challenges. There will still be some areas of uncertainty, especially because you don’t yet know what it’s like to care for a baby while also caring for an older child in the mix. Ask for help from family and friends in the first few days to help you with this big change. Before you know it you will get the hang of it and establish a routine. The most common worry is wondering how you can possibly love your second child as much as you love your firstborn. This is a tricky one to describe, but when your baby is born your instinct to love both children in their own unique way will just kick in on its own. Pre-Baby Prep Moms often joke that they lose their optimism about a Pinterest-ready nursery and other perfectionistic fantasies after the first baby. You’re going to have a much better idea of exactly what you need, which products you prefer and how you want everything set up and organized for round two. This often means that you won’t need to spend as much time researching and discovering helpful tools and techniques. Plus, you probably have some stored baby gear from your first child that you can put back in action for number two. Pregnancy The twists and turns associated with pregnancy will be less of a surprise now that you’ve been through it before. The first time, you probably knew you’d feel tired, nauseous and uncomfortable in certain ways, but you didn’t have an accurate idea of exactly what that means for you. Now you’ll feel much less surprised by just how exhausted you feel or the weird food-related aversions and cravings you experience. It’s not all going to be the same, though. Some mamas note that each of their children act differently in the womb. Some fetuses are quite active in utero, while others keep it calm. This is your first indication that parenthood can be even less predictable when you’ve got more than one kid. Milestones As your second child comes into his or her own, you may be surprised to find that you are filled with wonder at each new development the second time around. Sure, you’ve seen it before, but every baby moves at their own pace, so things aren’t going to happen in the exact same way. Your younger little one is an individual with unique traits and a special personality that manifests itself in the same delightful and occasionally frustrating ways as your older child. This is one area in which your experience of raising two kids will always be both similar and different at the same time. Getting to watch a baby blossom into an individual with special personal characteristics will always come with some surprises. The body’s response to pregnancy is another area that’s likely to be fairly predictable for second-time moms. If you experienced some abdominal discomfort after your first pregnancy, you can anticipate that for your second baby by planning to incorporate our postpartum support garments into your recovery.

Want a to throw a baby shower that’s fun and relaxed without being too goofy and hectic? These baby shower games and activities are sure to set the right tone for a warm and memorable event. Who’s That Baby? Giggle at vintage baby fashions and see how far you’ve all come by displaying baby photos of all your guests. Arrange the photos on a garland or cork board with numbers and have everyone guess who is who in the snapshots. The person with the most correct guesses wins! Name That Book! This mini trivia game is fun even for guests who don’t have kids of their own yet. Everyone remembers the important books from their childhood. From Dr. Seuss to Goodnight Moon, The Very Hungry Caterpillar and beyond, there are so many classic children’s books that stand the test of time and endure in our memories. Decide whether guests should play on their own or in small teams and create a list of trivia questions about 10 or so children’s books. You can choose memorable quotes, characters or scenarios and ask guests to name the book associated with that information. Pick out a fun literary prize for the winner, like a gift certificate to a local bookstore. If you’re hosting the shower for a friend, you can introduce an added special touch by actually buying a new copy of all the books you feature and having all the guests sign the books to add to the baby’s growing library. Custom Fashions Made With Love Not all baby shower activities have to be competitive. You can keep things low key by going for a creative activity instead. Onesie decorating is a great choice, and you have a lot of different options for how you approach this project. You can simply buy a multipack of plain white onesies and set out a full rainbow of fabric paint and other embellishments, letting guests do their own thing and come up with designs on their own. You can also provide materials in specific colors or motifs to match the theme of the shower. This is also a great way to create photo props for the parents to use in documenting the first weeks and months of their new child’s life. Assign each guest a week or month from weeks 1-6 and months 1-12 so the parents can dress their bundle of joy in a customized onesie and take a snapshot on each milestone day to track their little one’s progress as he or she rapidly goes from newborn to one year old. No matter what activities you choose, be sure to cap off the event by giving all your guests a card to write well wishes for the new family member and everyone else in the household. These messages of encouragement and love will be a treasured keepsake for the parents, showing how loved and supported they were at one of the most important stages of their lives. You Might Also Like: Planning Your Baby Shower

Are you prepared for the home stretch as you come towards the end of your pregnancy? This checklist will help you make sure you have all your ducks in a row before your little one arrives. Last Month of Pregnancy Checklist https://youtu.be/BPDMCEckrRo 1. Do something nice for yourself. New moms tend to share a few things in common, one of which is a complete focus on their baby’s needs to the expense of their own. Take all the time you can to pamper yourself at this point. Get your hair styled or cut. Get a manicure and take care of any other personal care indulgence you can think of. 2. Enjoy social time with adults. Chances are that you and your newborn aren’t going to be having deep conversations about current events or catchup chats about the latest gossip. Get your fill while you can. Go to a brunch with your girlfriends, have a romantic date with your partner. Spend some quality time with your bestie. Make the most of your relatively open dance card while it lasts. 3. Get your house ready. You’ve probably spent the last few months super focused on the nursery, the baby’s bathroom, baby-proofing and making room in the kitchen for bottles and other feeding supplies. As you put the finishing touches on these tasks, don’t forget to set yourself up for success too. Do your laundry, stock your pantry and make a list of any upcoming household chores will need to be taken care of while you’re busy taking care of the baby. Your partner, family and close friends can help you do all of this both now and later, so don’t stress out! 4. Test out your gear. It’s a good idea to make sure all of your baby gear is unpacked and in a place you’ll remember. But, you can take this a step further. Test everything now so you can understand how it works and be sure you have everything you need to keep things up and running. Perhaps that motorized crib mobile isn’t actually working properly, or the stroller you ordered has a mystery lever you’re afraid to touch. Figure all this stuff out now so you don’t have yet another thing on your plate once the baby arrives. You can also take this time to start looking at girdles, nursing pajamas and other garments that you’ll need after your delivery. 5. Line up your announcements. Get excited about the baby’s arrival by looking up birth announcements. You can even book a photoshoot with a newborn photographer if you’re so inclined. If not, be sure to clear out the storage on your camera or phone so you can take tons of pictures of the new arrival to include with your announcement. You’ll want to free up plenty of space on your phone and your partner’s phone and maybe even invest in a separate camera anyway. You’re going to be taking a ton of photos in the next several years. Why not set up an at-home photo printer while you’re at it so you can have hard copies to frame as well?

Feeling your baby moving around inside your womb is gratifying for a variety of reasons. For high-risk pregnancies, this feeling can be a major relief. Should you be counting fetal kicks? Learn more about this important prenatal monitoring strategy. Fetal Movement Counting Basics Why count your fetus’ kicks? Though kick counting, also known as fetal movement counting, has a long history and is commonly recommended in the third trimester, especially for high-risk pregnancies. However, it’s exact purpose isn’t always clear. Doctors at the UC San Diego Health system acknowledge that, while the formal jury is out on what fetal movement counting can do, they’ve found correlative evidence to suggest that the practice can help reduce stillbirths. Other health professionals may feel that movement counting provides a general view of how the fetus is behaving as it gets closer and closer to delivery. Fetal movements should remain somewhat consistent throughout pregnancy. There does tend to be less movement in the womb during the day, with most unborn babies getting their wiggles out in the evening. This is especially true during the third trimester. Kick counting is a method for counting how many times the fetus moves during a set time frame. Usually, the counts are performed at roughly the same time every day to provide a controlled set of circumstances for monitoring. If you’re going about your normal routine and counting at the same time, a sudden lack or dramatic reduction in movement could be cause for concern. Essentially, this kind of self-monitoring is a way for expectant mothers to keep an eye on their unborn child without the need for invasive or expensive equipment. How Fetal Counts Work Unfortunately, there’s a persistent myth stating that fetuses should start moving less during the third trimester. This isn’t true. You may feel your baby moving around less randomly, but there should be daily movement. That’s why monitoring should take place around the same time every day—choose a time when your kid generally seems to move around a lot in your womb. Set a period of time, maybe five minutes or so, to count actions. This includes kicks, shifts and other definitive movements you can really feel. A sudden lack of movement after days of active counts during the same time period could point to potential complications or a fetus under some sort of stress. A big word of caution about this, though: taking on kick counting on your own without any supervision can do you more harm than good as far as stress and anxiety are concerned. If your doctor or midwife hasn’t mentioned kick counting to you, ask if you should start doing it. Whether the answer is yes or no, find out why. Gather as much information as you can about the state of your pregnancy, and don’t let a calm fetus freak you out if every other sign points to a healthy delivery. Some kids just don’t move around a whole lot before they’re born. On the flip side, if you notice a sudden and dramatic decline in fetal movement even without being told to count kicks, you can and should bring this up with your healthcare team. At the very least, you could get some valuable reassurance. If you’re taking the time to count kicks every night, why not multitask and shop for a postpartum corset or girdle? Use our sizing tool to find the best fit so you can stay comfy and supported after delivery. You Might Also Like: What to Pack In Your Hospital Bag. Bellefit Products

Table Of Contents Lower Back Pain During Pregnancy (Lumbar Pain) Sacral Back Pain During Pregnancy Diagnosis of Pregnancy-Related Back Pain Causes of Back Pain During Pregnancy Treatment of Lumbar Pain and Sacral During Pregnancy Lower Back Pain Relief After Pregnancy Back pain, especially in the lumbar or sacral regions, is a common condition experienced during pregnancy. In fact, nearly 1 out of every 2 pregnant women can expect to experience acute or chronic pain the in lumbar or sacral regions of the spine. The pain in these areas is typically temporary and a direct result of pregnancy-induced weight gain and hormonal changes, and often contributes to pain, sleep-disturbances, and other discomforts experienced during the course of the pregnancy. Lower Back Pain During Pregnancy (Lumbar Pain) Lumbar pain during pregnancy is generally located at and above the waist in the center of the back. For all intensive purposes, low back pain experienced during pregnancy is very similar to lumbar pain experienced by women who are not expecting, and includes: Increased pain accompanying prolonged periods of sitting and/or standing; Aching and stiffness resulting from sleeping on stomach and/or back Discomfort and pain associated with movements, including walking, twisting, bending and lifting. It is important to note that the lumbar pain defined above is not sciatica, another condition that can occur during pregnancy. While the two conditions can occur concurrently, symptoms of sciatica also include low back pain and pain that radiates into the buttocks, legs, and feet. Sacral Back Pain During Pregnancy Sacral back pain occurring during pregnancy is known as pregnancy pelvic pain, or PPP. PPP is the result of pain or discomfort occurring near the sacroiliac (SI) joints of the pelvis (the joints located at the 2 “dimples” of the lower back), and as a result of SI joint dysfunction. Women are four times more likely to experience posterior pelvic pain than lumbar pain during their pregnancy. PPP typically begins in the 18th week of pregnancy, becomes progressively more intense as the pregnancy progresses, and goes away 10 to 12 weeks after delivery. In rare cases, PPP can be chronic and cause debilitating pain. Diagnosis of Pregnancy-Related Back Pain Most cases of lumbar back pain and pregnancy pelvic pain will be diagnosed by your doctor after conducting a complete physical exam and health history. During this assessment, your doctor will look for a complete and detailed description of symptoms causing pain and discomfort. Your doctor may also elect to conduct a series of physical tests designed to recreate and pinpoint the exact cause and location of the back pain. While assessing for PPP, doctors will often inject a numbing agent into the SI joint to further identify the exact source of pain. To further assist with diagnosing the condition, your doctor might also order a series of imaging test, such a CT scan, MRI, or X-ray to further assist with identification of a cause (It is important to note that any imaging exam or medical procedure using radiation is generally avoided during pregnancy, unless its use is absolutely necessary and unavoidable). Causes of Back Pain During Pregnancy Back pain experienced during pregnancy can be caused by several different conditions and factors that are associated with natural changes that occur during pregnancy, including: Weight gain and a changing center of gravity. Women can gain as much as 25% of their body weight during pregnancy, this increased weight adds tremendous stress to the lower back and other weight bearing joints. In addition, and since weight is typically added in the front, women tend to compensate for this shifting center of gravity by leaning backwards, which increases the stress placed on the lower back. Muscle fatigue. As a result of the added weight, shifting center of gravity, and increased stress on the structures of the back and other weight-bearing joints, the muscles in and around the associated areas tend to become weak and less flexible - increasing the likelihood of experiencing low back pain. In addition, and as a result of the growing uterus, the muscles in and around the pelvis also become stretched and weak. Increased production of the hormones estrogen and relaxin. The increased production and release of estrogen and relaxin occurs in preparation for birth. However, the increased production of these hormones can also contribute to back pain by contributing to laxity of the joints in the pelvis and surrounding areas. Treatment of Lumbar Pain and Sacral During Pregnancy Recommended treatment of lumbar back pain and PPP during pregnancy typically involves conservative (non-surgical) treatments, including exercises and stretching designed to improve posture and increase strength and flexibility of the supporting muscles and joints in and around the lower back and pelvis. Your doctor will often recommend a few visits to a physical therapist who specializes in treatment of pre and postpartum lower back pain for further recommendations for a non-invasive treatment program designed to treat or prevent lower back pain during pregnancy. This program is designed to maintain optimal function during pregnancy and will often include treatment instructions and exercises for improved posture while sleeping, walking, and conducting regular movements during each stage of your pregnancy. Lower Back Pain Relief After Pregnancy Back pain in the lumbar region and pregnancy pelvic pain typically subside right after your baby is born. Roughly six weeks to eight weeks after deliver, the ligaments of the pelvic return to a normal state of rigidity and are able to resume the role of supporting normal motion and daily weight bearing activities. Pain or discomfort in the lumbar or sacral regions lasting longer than this should be evaluated by your physician. This Article was brought to you in collaboration with Bellefit, the makers of the best postpartum girdles Founded in 2008 Bellefit® is the most mom-trusted and awarded brand of postpartum girdles corsets for recovery after c-section or natural childbirth. Bellefit® girdles come in five designs made using proprietary compression fabrics. Their unique design features triple-layered reinforced front and back support panels. As a woman-owned company, Bellefit® is no stranger to the challenges new moms face during and after pregnancy. The company helps women feel supported and confident in their changing bodies. Bellefit Girdles

Very few women who have ever been pregnant haven’t seen a stretch mark or two. Gaining pregnancy weight suddenly stretches the skin and causes scarring. Although they’re not entirely avoidable, stretch marks don’t have to be prominent as there are ways to lighten them and mask their appearance on the skin. Real Moms Show Their Stretch Marks When to Expect Stretch Marks to Appear Stretch marks appear during weeks thirteen to twenty-one. You’ll start to notice the reddish or purple marks forming on your breasts, hips, thighs, and stomach at this time. You may be lucky and not notice any real stretch marks on your body. The Causes of Pregnancy Stretch Marks If you’ve ever wondered what causes stretch marks to appear while pregnant, you’re not alone. Many women want to know this information, so they can do their part to reduce the severe appearance of stretched, reddened skin. Knowing why stretch marks occur in the first place can help women determine the best way to deal with them. Things to consider about stretch marks include: Genetics. If your mother had them, you’ll probably have them, too. Stretch marks are actually tiny tears in the skin as it stretches. As you gain weight, your skin stretches to accommodate the changes in your body. It actually tears which marks up your skin. Rapid weight gain is often the culprit for big stretch marks. If you gain weight too fast, you’ll see big stretch marks as your skin tries to accommodate the changes in your body. Light skin is more prone to more prominent stretch marks. Darker skin doesn’t show stretch marks as clearly as lighter skin. As you can see, there are many things that make stretch marks more noticeable. Tips for Minimizing the Appearance of Stretch Marks Stretch marks are a normal part of pregnancy. You can, however, minimize their appearance by doing the following things: Fall in love with cocoa butter. Let it be your moisturizing agent of choice. It combats dryness and itchiness while soothing your stretched skin. Get enough Vitamin C in your diet. It helps tone your body and maintain your skin’s elasticity, so it doesn’t stretch as much. Try not to gain too much weight. Don’t let the excuse that “you’re eating for two” become a problem. Watch your weight and note any significant fluctuations you see. Talk to your doctor about how many extra pounds you’ll gain with your pregnancy and report the differences to the physician as they occur. There could be an underlying health issue that hasn’t been detected. Get a skin treatment from your dermatologist after the baby has been born. It’s not safe to undergo such a procedure or treatment now but it will be once you’ve delivered your child. Besides, your skin won’t stop stretching until after then, anyway. There are things you can do to minimize the appearance of stretch marks. Keep in mind that the skin will continue to stretch until after you delivered the baby. If you choose to undergo any type of treatment for the marks, do so after you’ve given birth for best results. You Might Also Like: Pregnancy Skincare: Whats Going On and What to Do About It.

Managing pregnancy and work is easier than it used to be https://youtu.be/yM4O1oMZU1A Thank goodness! We’re not still stuck in the day when a woman was dispatched to her home or bed at the first sign of being “in a family way.” Pregnant coworkers are no longer an oddity, nor should they be — barring dangerous or highly physical working conditions. Today, most working moms-to-be plan to stay on the job as long as possible, even throughout the third trimester. Here are a few tips for working while pregnant. Embrace a Functional Wardrobe Looking professional while pregnant can be a challenge after the first few months. Just remember you’re not going to be this shape forever. Invest in only a few basic maternity dresses, or tops and pants. Choose pieces that fit your company dress code and culture — to get you through the last months. Dress outfits up or down with jackets or accessories from your regular working wardrobe, but stick with comfort above all else. If it binds, constricts or pinches, leave it. That extends to footwear, too. Telling Who, and When You may wish to hold off telling your coworkers at first, just as you hold off telling your family until you are certain of your situation and a healthy pregnancy. There is nothing wrong with that. However, the first person you should tell is your supervisor, or business partner. Let them know as soon as you feel comfortable doing so. They can help you with any questions you have about maternity leave or company policies. This includes reasonable accommodations for your condition if your job entails physical requirements you might not be able to meet in later months. Most importantly, you’ll want to discuss not only your maternity leave, but your plans to return. Being up front with your boss, and your co-workers, about your intentions will lower everybody’s anxiety level. And, they can be a positive part of your support system. Go Ergonomic Sitting or standing in the wrong position for an extended period is hard on anybody. It’s even worse if you’re pregnant. If you must be seated in front of a computer for most of your day, be sure that your chair, desk and keyboard setup is ergonomically correct to reduce back, neck, arm and eye strain. Take frequent breaks to stand, stretch and walk to help with ankle swelling. An adjustable sit-or-stand workstation may be the solution. Regardless, take measures to reduce pressure on your lower back. As your pregnancy progresses, there are natural changes in your balance, agility and coordination. Make accommodations as needed If You Have Morning Sickness The good news is that it passes after the first trimester for most women. However, it isn’t always in the morning only and, for some, it can show up randomly — usually at the worst possible time. If you’re going through it, here are some tips: Avoid eating large amounts. Instead, snack all day to keep your blood sugar levels even and avoid queasiness. Keep small packages of crackers, granola bars and hard candy on hand at all times, as well as small bottles of ginger ale. Sit near the door at meetings, just in case. If you need to excuse yourself, a quick and quiet exit and return is the way to go. Approach Everything With A Positive Spin Pregnancy doesn’t have to sabotage your usual high level of performance. If you’re going through periods of fatigue, discomfort or the hormonal crazies, acknowledge it and move on with a smile. Working full time while pregnant requires stepping up both your time- and self-management skills. Talk to your supervisor about flexible hours to ensure you can get your work done. Make every effort to schedule doctor appointments for lunch hours , or first thing in the morning if a workday appointment is unavoidable. Be sure to get plenty of sleep. Tap your support system at home, and don’t be shy about asking friends and family to step up if you need extra help to make it to the finish line. Finally, never forget that your first concerns should always be the health and safety of your baby and yourself. Discuss all aspects of your work with your doctor early on. Understand exactly what is OK and what to avoid during your pregnancy. Address risk factors immediately, and when in doubt, sit it out. Your well-managed career will be there when you get back. Bellefit Featured Products

https://youtu.be/_OCv1PY7MTM 10 Steps to a Healthy Pregnancy 1. Plan for Pregnancy Just as you make life plans for things like career and finances, consider your reproductive plans in young adulthood. Thinking about when you want to have a family, spacing pregnancies and how many children you might want should be on your radar well before you have a baby. This way, you can maintain reproductive health and make informed decisions. Regular physicals and dental appointments, good health habits and control of any ongoing medical conditions can be part of that plan. 2. Get Prenatal Care Early As soon as you learn you are pregnant, or even before if you are trying to conceive, choose the right practitioner for screening tests, medical care and counseling about your pregnancy. Particularly for women with risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure, genetic risks and prior problem pregnancies, early medical care is essential. An obstetrician and your family medical doctor may be the right choice. For women with low risk factors, a certified nurse-midwife or professional midwife with obstetrician back up may be right. Get recommendations from family and friends to find a comfortable fit. 3. Take Prenatal Vitamins It’s not easy to keep perfect eating habits in our modern world. That’s why most physicians recommend a daily multi-vitamin to maintain optimal health. This is especially important during pregnancy, particularly where nutrients such as iron, calcium, iodine and folic acid are concerned. Prenatal vitamins ensure that the needs of your growing baby are met. Adequate folic acid levels are extremely important in the development of baby’s brain and spinal cord in the first trimester. Look for vitamins with at least 400 micrograms of folic acid. Your doctor may recommend more. 4. Manage Expectations You’ll reduce stress levels if you can manage both your own expectations as well as those of others. Each pregnancy is different and all moms are different. There is no such thing as a perfect pregnancy, so decide early that your nine months are unique to you. Try not to compare how you or your body handles pregnancy with anyone else’s experience. Likewise, let your loved ones know things like whether or not you want company and when, or who you want in the birthing room with you. Make a plan in advance with your medical team to address items such as how you want to deliver and pain management. And try to remain flexible. Pregnancy can also be unpredictable and plans can change. 5. Check finances to allow you to stay at the hospital or with care at home as long as required Review your health insurance so you know what types of tests, prenatal care, delivery and postpartum care are covered. An early discharge from the hospital or birthing center may not be the best thing for you and your baby. Three days is a typical recommended stay, with longer stays for C-section births or deliveries with complications. Have a good idea of how much you will need to cover costs not paid by insurance. Include expenses such as prepared meals or extra household help for the first week or two you are home. Saving up to meet the costs of optimal prenatal and postpartum care reduces stress and provides a good start for you and your baby. 6. You’re not sick, you’re pregnant – know what to watch for If you are in good health when you conceive, your doctor will probably tell you not to worry and to continue with your daily life per norma. Only recommending to adjusting a few things like diet, exercise, schedule or medications to fit your pregnant state. Twinges, aches, upset stomach and gas are common. However, there are some symptoms for which you should seek immediate medical attention. If you experience cramps, pain or contractions, call the doctor. Vaginal bleeding, fluid, or discharge is a red flag. Swelling in your feet, legs or joints (edema) can be serious. Dizziness, palpitations or shortness of breath also call for medical care. While morning sickness is also common, it usually passes after the first trimester. If you have continuous and severe nausea or vomiting, seek medical treatment. Listen to your body. If something doesn’t seem right, call your doctor. 7. Eat Well Eating a balanced and varied diet that delivers good nutrition goes without saying. Also cut out extra salt and processed sugar. Feed cravings with fresh fruit instead. Get plenty of water and fiber. Your growing baby is putting a lot of pressure on your digestive system, and constipation can be an issue. Don’t deprive yourself. A little indulgence is fine. Just keep it under control. Gaining too much weight — or even too little — during pregnancy is unhealthy for both of you. Stay away from unpasteurized dairy products such as some cheeses as well as unpasteurized juice. Stay away from herbal teas, too. Fish is a great source of protein, but avoid larger fish such as swordfish, shark or mackerel due to mercury levels. Keep albacore tuna to less than six ounces per week, although canned light tuna is fine. Don’t eat any raw or undercooked seafood, poultry, pork, beef or eggs. Food borne illnesses caused by pathogens such as salmonella or listeria can cause severe complications. These include miscarriage, premature labor and infant death or developmental disabilities. Moreover, be extra careful with food hygiene and preparation during pregnancy. 8. Exercise Correctly and With Moderation It’s important to maintain good muscle tone and strength, particularly in your core. Thirty minutes of daily exercise such as walking or swimming (skip the scuba diving) will keep you aerobically fit. You’ll need that heart and lung power. Talk to your doctor about exercises designed to keep your stomach, back and pelvic floor in optimal condition for delivery and recovery. Exercises like crunches, sit-ups, deep knee bends or leg raises are not good for you during pregnancy. Also avoid contact sports, high impact activities (moderate running or jogging may be OK in the first few months) and activities where you could fall, like horseback riding. In your last trimester, you may notice some balance issues, so be aware of any limitations in your movement to be safe. Always discuss exercise options with your doctor before starting any routine. 9. Be Good To Your Feet Those 4-inch-heel showstoppers need to sit out your pregnancy in a place of honor in your closet. Invest in a few pair of cute, comfortable low-heel shoes with cushy, non-slip soles and plenty of room. You will very likely experience some swelling in your feet and ankles. This can make your pre-pregnancy shoes pinch, rub and restrict circulation. Higher heels throw your weight and balance off, putting additional unwanted pressure on your lower back and knees. Pregnancy is a great excuse to go shoe shopping, so go! 10. Be Good To Yourself This is the time to indulge in a bit of pampering, whatever that means to you. Don’t volunteer to take on new projects at work and don’t create new projects at home unless they’re manageable and make you happy. Let the little stuff go. Give yourself permission to be tired, cranky, or impatient. Keep up with your doctor visits and get plenty of rest. Surround yourself with a positive support system and tell yourself how beautiful you are every day.

The word “doula” comes from the Greek word referring to a woman’s servant. Modern doulas aren’t exactly servants. However they are dedicated to serving a mother’s needs before, during and after childbirth. Mothers who work with a doula during and after their pregnancies often feel more relaxed, empowered and satisfied with their experience. This is particularly true during the delivery. Learn more about what a doula can do for you, so you can decide whether this might be a good option to pursue for your pregnancy. What Is A Doula? Doulas are professionals who assist with pregnancy, childbirth and infant care. They don’t replace doctors or nurses. However, they are typically a good source of information for pregnant mothers and new parents. The doula is not involved with the activities of the midwife or medical team. during labor and delivery. Some doulas may have medical training, but they must have separate credentials to get involved with any advanced healthcare assistance. Doulas do not require formal education or licensure in most cases.. Some states require doula registration, but that’s not the same as a credential. There are multiple independent certification organizations.However, this is a voluntary process that can be completed with varying degrees of rigor and formal requirements. Be sure to research different candidates if you’re concerned about finding a qualified professional. Look carefully at each potential doula’s background and training. Doulas provide a paid service, and because the profession lacks a formal standardized training and licensure process, insurance companies may not cover their services. Mothers who are particularly anxious about pregnancy or labor often benefit from having a doula by their side. The doulas are a dedicated resource for emotional support and information. What Does A Doula Do? Doulas are often referred to as birthing companions. They are a one-person coaching and cheerleading team. They support the pregnant mother and, usually to a lesser extent, her partner. Most doulas are labor doulas.They attend to the mother during labor and delivery. Labor doulas typically meet with the expectant mother several weeks or months prior to the due date. The doula will get to know her client in these pre-delivery meetings. She will answer questions, provide reassurance and assist with the development of a birth plan. Doulas are helpful assistants to mothers as they learn breathing and relaxation techniques. Doulas provide coaching for the mother’s partner as well. This is particularly helpful as he or she may have anxieties or hesitations as well. During the labor and delivery process, the doula may hold the mother’s hand. She will provide her with encouragement and reassurance. She will speak up for the mother’s needs. The Doula will act as a familiar face during a potentially stressful time. Doulas can also provide pain-relief services such as massage. Your doula can also make sure your medical wishes are respected, allowing you to focus on the big job at hand. Not all doulas are labor doulas. Specialist doulas focus on other aspects of pregnancy. Using a specialist doula allows you to find a professional who provides exactly the service you need. Antepartum doulas provide emotional and physical support to pregnant mothers experiencing high-risk pregnancies. Postpartum doulas provide information and support after delivery for nursing mothers. They can also perform some personal-life assistance as well. They help out around the house and perform other tasks.

For many women, excelling in the professional realm means gracefully balancing motherhood with proper planning at work. Get started with your plans as soon as your pregnancy is confirmed. This will help you set the stage for a smooth future through each stage of the experience. Read more to learn some helpful tips on how to manage a full-time job during pregnancy. Breaking The News Even if you’ve already decided to tell your friends and family, it’s often best to wait until your second trimester to announce the news at work. Gather as much information as you can from your doctor about when you might need to start maternity leave. If you’ve been pregnant before and were put on bed rest or otherwise had to start your leave earlier than expected, be prepared to discuss this with management. Start by telling your direct supervisor and management in a closed-door meeting. If you’d like, you can ask them to keep the news confidential. Otherwise, give them permission to share with the whole team. Confirm details of the company’s maternity leave policy ASAP. Ideally you should do this before the meeting. Share your expected timeline and, if your employer isn’t being flexible or is showing signs of frustration with the news, make it clear that you know your rights as a working mother in your state. In most states, this does not include mandated paid time off. But it does often mean that you can’t be fired. Know that some employers are quite selfish with this kind of news and will even try to break the law. That does not mean you’re wrong. They are. Update your employers or managers every month or so with how your pregnancy is progressing . This includes if your expected due date changes or it’s seeming likely that you’ll be on bed rest, when you may need to take time off. Taking Care of Yourself and Your Little One Stay connected to your body and be mindful of what your hormones are up to. If you’re experiencing nausea at a certain time of day, bring ginger ale or anti-nausea medication to work. This way, you can fight those yucky feelings. Wear comfortable shoes and ask your employer to temporarily relax the dress code if your comfy shoes don’t match. Schedule appointments around your work schedule as much as possible. This is even if everyone at work is being super supportive. If your direct management isn’t being understanding of your completely reasonable need to take time off for doctor’s check-ups, consider talking with their higher-ups. After you welcome your new baby to the world, be prepared to wear compression garments and ask for permission to extend your maternity leave if you won’t be able to perform your regular job duties due to doctor’s orders. If you’ve already planned and prepped your work crew before your left for leave, a few extra days off shouldn’t be a big deal.